Since 1985, partnerships have become a common feature of rural regeneration, yet little is known about how they work in practice. This research project analyzed 154 rural partnerships in mid-Wales and Shropshire. The report examines the processes involved in building partnerships in rural areas and seeks to stablish why some partnerships are more effective than others. Highlighting examples of both good and bad practice, it examines: the characteristics of rural partnerships; their organization and structure; the experiences of working in partnership; the implications for rural governance.